Hilton Namhae Wins World Travel Award
By Kim Tae-jong
Staff Reporter
The Hilton Namhae Golf & Spa Resort recently won a World Travel Award, one of the most prestigious awards in the international travel industry, in the category of resort leader, for the second straight year.
The resort's general manager attributed the success to his staff as well as superb natural environment.
``It was surely a great honor. We have a good product, which we can improve every day. And I think most important asset of the hotel is our team,'' Jean-Philippe Jacopin told The Korea Times. ``They offer customers the best services and help them have unique experience at our property. That is the main secret to the success.''
It is obviously a remarkable achievement for the resort, which opened in 2006, amid initial skepticism.
The resort is located in one of the most isolated places in the country ― the southernmost island of Namhae, long known simply for its quality garlic or just centuries ago, a dumping ground for criminals and exiles.
But now it attracts those seeking perfect relaxation at its 830,000 square-meter property, surrounded by white sandy beaches and scenic forest.
The isolated location lurres holidaymakers who stay for a few days to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
It has 150 luxury suites and 20 villas, all with private balconies, and other facilities such as ocean-view spas and outdoor swimming pools. One of its attractions is its 18-hole seaside golf course with ocean-hugging fairways and greens.
Apart from the golf course, the resort also offers a range of programs for tours on Namhae, fishing activities, spa treatments and massage therapy.
``We have plans for future development. We wish to have a fitness center and create more activities for family visitors and children,'' Jacopin said. ``If we continue what we have been doing, we will get the award again next year.''
Speaking highly of Namhae's natural environment, Jacopin also believed that his property will finally outperform other well-established hotels in such popular tourist resorts as Hawaii and Maldives.
``Namhae is new. It's only one and half years (since we entered the market). We cannot compete with them. But in ten years, we can beat all of them,'' he said.
But he hoped that the municipal government will devote to the development of Namhae to create a better tourist environment.
``Politically speaking, better roads and flights from other regions are needed to make Namhae better for tourists. Namhae will be growing,'' he said.
The year of 2010 and 2012 will be a critical moment as South Gyeongsang Province will host its first Formula One (F-1) car race and the World Expo, respectively, he said.